Journal of Pain Management and Therapy

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (202) 780-3397

Perspective - Journal of Pain Management and Therapy (2024) Volume 8, Issue 4

Alternative therapies for spinal pain: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, and more

Roel Ostelov *

Department of General Practice, University of Medical Center, Netherlands

*Corresponding Author:
Roel Ostelov
Department of General Practice, University of Medical Center, Netherlands
E-mail: rostelr@mc.nl

Received: 28-Jun-2024, Manuscript No. AAPMT-24-144875; Editor assigned: 01-Jul-2024, PreQC No. AAPMT-24-144875 (PQ); Reviewed: 15-Jul-2024, QC No. AAPMT-24-144875; Revised: 18-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. AAPMT-24-144875 (R); Published: 25-Jul-2024, DOI:10.35841/aapmt-8.4.215

Citation: : Ostelov R. Alternative therapies for spinal pain: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, and more. J Pain Manage Ther. 2024;8(4):215.

Visit for more related articles at Journal of Pain Management and Therapy

Introduction

Spinal pain is a common affliction that affects millions of people globally, and while conventional treatments like medications and physical therapy are widely used, many individuals seek alternative therapies to manage their discomfort. Alternative therapies offer different approaches that can complement traditional treatments or serve as standalone options. Among these, acupuncture and chiropractic care are two prominent methods, but other therapies, such as massage and yoga, also play significant roles in managing spinal pain. Understanding these alternative treatments and their potential benefits can help individuals make informed choices about their care [1, 2].

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. The practice is based on the concept that energy, or "qi," flows through meridians in the body, and blockages or imbalances in this flow can lead to pain and illness. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, practitioners aim to restore balance and alleviate symptoms. Research has shown that acupuncture can be effective in treating various types of pain, including spinal pain. It is thought to work by triggering the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, as well as by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. For many individuals with spinal pain, acupuncture offers a complementary approach that can enhance overall pain management and improve quality of life [3, 4].

Chiropractic care is another widely recognized alternative therapy that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use manual adjustments and manipulations to align the spine and improve function. The underlying principle is that misalignments in the spinal vertebrae, known as subluxations, can interfere with nerve function and contribute to pain and other health issues. By performing spinal adjustments, chiropractors aim to restore proper alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and enhance the body's ability to heal itself. Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective in managing certain types of spinal pain, particularly lower back pain and neck pain. It can also be beneficial in improving range of motion, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing overall spinal health. However, it is essential for individuals to choose a qualified chiropractor and discuss their condition thoroughly to ensure that chiropractic adjustments are appropriate for their specific needs [5, 6].

Massage therapy is another alternative treatment that can provide significant relief for spinal pain. This therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, to reduce tension, improve circulation, and alleviate pain. Various types of massage techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point therapy, can be tailored to address specific issues related to spinal pain. Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and enhance overall relaxation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic spinal pain. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, massage therapy can also have a positive impact on mental well-being, which is often closely linked to pain perception and management [7, 8].

Yoga, a practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, offers a holistic approach to managing spinal pain. Yoga can improve flexibility, strength, and balance, which are essential for maintaining a healthy spine. Specific yoga poses can target areas of the spine that may be contributing to pain, helping to stretch and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Additionally, the mindful practice of yoga encourages relaxation and stress reduction, which can further alleviate pain and improve overall well-being. Many individuals find that incorporating yoga into their routine not only helps with pain management but also enhances their overall physical and mental health. However, it is crucial to practice yoga under the guidance of a qualified instructor, especially for those with existing spinal conditions, to avoid exacerbating the pain or causing further injury [9, 10].

Conclusion

In summary, alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and yoga offer diverse approaches to managing spinal pain. These treatments can complement traditional medical care by addressing different facets of pain and enhancing overall well-being. Acupuncture can help restore balance and relieve pain through the stimulation of specific points, while chiropractic care focuses on spinal alignment and nerve function. Massage therapy alleviates muscle tension and improves circulation, and yoga promotes flexibility, strength, and relaxation. Other therapies like pilates, aromatherapy, and herbal treatments can also provide additional benefits. While alternative therapies can be valuable components of a pain management strategy, they should be used in conjunction with conventional treatments and under the guidance of healthcare professionals. By exploring and integrating these approaches, individuals can develop a comprehensive plan to manage spinal pain effectively and improve their overall quality of life.

References

  1. Marty-Lombardi S, Lu S, Ambroziak W, et al. Neuron–astrocyte metabolic coupling facilitates spinal plasticity and maintenance of inflammatory pain. Nat Metab. 2024;6(3):494-513.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. Lockwood S, Dickenson AH. What goes up must come down: insights from studies on descending controls acting on spinal pain processing. J Neural Transm. 2020;127(4):541-9.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Nayak S, Matheis RJ, Agostinelli S, et al. The use of complementary and alternative therapies for chronic pain following spinal cord injury: a pilot survey. J Spinal Cord Med. 2001;24(1):54-62.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Boehland T, Montgomery AD, Mortenson M. Combination acupuncture and cupping for treating adult idiopathic scoliosis. Med Acupunct. 2020;32(4):229-33.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Goertz CM, Long CR, English C, et al. Patient-reported physician treatment recommendations and compliance among US adults with low back pain. J Altern Complement Med. 2021;27(S1):S-99.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Southerst D, Marchand AA, Cote P, et al. The effectiveness of noninvasive interventions for musculoskeletal thoracic spine and chest wall pain: a systematic review by the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management (OPTIMa) collaboration. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2015;38(7):521-31.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Kumar K, Malik S, Demeria D. Treatment of chronic pain with spinal cord stimulation versus alternative therapies: cost-effectiveness analysis. Neurosurgery. 2002;51(1):106-16.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Chou R, Deyo R, Friedly J, et al. Nonpharmacologic therapies for low back pain: a systematic review for an American College of Physicians clinical practice guideline. Ann Intern Med. 2017;166(7):493-505.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Qaseem A, Wilt TJ, McLean RM, et al. Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: a clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med. 2017;166(7):514-30.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Cohen SP, Hooten WM. Advances in the diagnosis and management of neck pain. BMJ. 2017;358.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App